Near Earth Objects, our Celestial Neighbors (IAU S236)

Near Earth Objects (NEOs), asteroids and comets, are the closest neighbors of the Earth-Moon system. They allow research not yet possible on more distant bodies. The IAU Symposium 236 focused on the specific observation and modeling techniques for NEOs, including radar, exploration by spacecraft, measurement of non-gravitational perturbations; also on the next generation surveys expected to increase a hundred-fold the NEO discovery rate. With data from first generation NEO surveys, we now understand how they formed and evolve, dynamically and physically, opening a window on the universal astrophysical phenomenon of collision, leaving clear markings on the surfaces of planets, including the Earth. NEOs with orbits crossing that of the Earth are also a source of impact risks and potential NEO collisions with the Earth represent a long term threat. Mankind has to put in place a chain of mitigating actions; NEO astronomers have successfully put in place the first link.

Spis treści:
Preface
Prologue
Part I. Population Models and Transport Mechanisms
Part II. The Meteroid/Asteroid Impact Transition
Part III. Rotation Shapes and Binaries
Part IV. Surfaces and Composition
Part V. Surveys, Orbit Determination and Data Processing
Part VI. Surveys, Observatories and their Performances
Part VII. Current and Future Missions to NEOs
Part VIII. Impact Monitoring and Risk Measurements
Part IX. IAU and Government Roles in the NEO Problem
Epilogue
Indices.